WHITTLEY MARINE GROUP Unveils Groundbreaking Walk-Through Windscreen Concept
Whittley Marine Group, Australia’s largest fibreglass trailer boat builder, has released teaser images of an industry-first trailer boat model featuring an innovative walk-through side windscreen, known as the Whittley “Mid Saloon Walk-Through” concept.
The design removes traditional walk-around side decks, increasing usable space inside the saloon cockpit. This allows access to the front deck via the mid-cabin saloon—previously seen only on larger vessels. The new layout seamlessly connects the rear cockpit, saloon, and foredeck, maximising space and accessibility.
A GAME-CHANGING DESIGN
Alan Whittley, director of sales and marketing, highlighted the concept’s uniqueness:
“No other local or imported trailer boat brand has developed this design. It provides noticeable extra space and safety, offering a big in-water boat feel without the high mooring costs. This innovation redefines live-aboard trailer boating.”
Developed over two years with global engineering input, the concept features easily accessible steps leading to the opening windscreen, creating a companionway on the port side. This breakthrough eliminates the need for side decks while maintaining a legal towing width under 2.5 metres for Australian roads.
Whittley noted that the design originated from customer feedback:
“Owners found traditional side decks inconvenient. By removing them, we unlocked additional space inside the rear saloon while staying within legal towing limits. We’ve also raised the floor height for uninterrupted views. Using VR technology, I’ve experienced the model first-hand—it feels like a much larger boat.”
INNOVATIVE FEATURES & CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY
Although the full model details are yet to be revealed, Whittley’s Design Studio has shared key features:
- Lockable sliding cabin door mid-ship
- Outboard power (single or twin-engine)
- Brunswick E-Fathom power system
- Seakeeper Ride trim tab system
- Full-length sunroof—electrically controlled, enhancing ventilation and protection
- Improved side window airflow for docking convenience
Describing the model as Australia’s most advanced fibreglass trailer boat, Whittley emphasised its lithium battery system which eliminates the need for generators, and its spacious rear area is optimised for an outboard-only design.
“This boat integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance the boating experience, setting a new industry standard for maxi-trailer boats.”
EXCLUSIVE VR DEALERSHIP EXPERIENCE & PRE-ORDERS OPEN
Whittley Marine Group will soon launch a New Model VR in Dealership Experience, allowing customers to explore the boat in virtual reality at factory-owned dealerships across Australia.
“This industry-first experience allows customers to move through the new model in real time. We’ve already pre-sold the first three production builds, so now is the time to secure your slot for summer!”
For more details or to book a VR tour, call 03 8339 1800 or visit Whittley dealerships in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Newcastle, and the Gold Coast. More updates on the CR model will follow soon.
www.whittley.com.au
Published in print April-July 2025
